We spend considerable time learning how to communicate effectively through written and spoken language, but much of our communication actually takes place in the nonverbal realm. Every day we communicate who we are, what we think and what we believe through nonverbal messages. These messages may be subtle, such as smiling at a coworker, and more obvious, such as shouting during an argument. Regardless of the situation, we are constantly sending and receiving nonverbal messages in a wide variety of ways, often without even realizing that communication has occurred.
Definition
Nonverbal communication involves any message that conveys meaning and that is not transmitted through spoken or written language. Nonverbal communication may or may not be intentional. Unlike verbal communication, nonverbal communication can be more difficult to understand and to manage. Nonverbal communication encompasses how you use body language, such as your physical posture and your facial expressions, and may involve your personal attire and other aspects of your physical appearance as well. Nonverbal communication can also involve your physical environment, such as your home or your office.
Significance
Even though nonverbal communication can be difficult to manage and to understand, this form of communication often has greater and longer-lasting impact than verbal communication. For example, think of the last argument that you had with a family member or close friend. While you may or may not be able to recall specific words that were spoken, you will most likely remember the other person’s tone of voice, physical posture and gestures. Isa R. Engleberg and Dianna R. Wynn, in “Working in Groups,” explain that people base their understanding of what you mean not only on what you say, but also on what you do.
Behaviors
Nonverbal communication encompasses a variety of behaviors, including facial, vocal and physical expressions. The expression on your face, the look in your eyes, the tone of your voice and the posture of your body all convey moods and emotions, attitudes and thoughts. You may even make a declaration verbally that your nonverbal communication contradicts, such as telling your spouse that nothing is wrong while avoiding eye contact with her. Another element of nonverbal communication is that of personal appearance, such as clothing and hairstyle.
Environments
Interpersonal space can also serve as a form of nonverbal communication. How close you stand or sit to a person communicates information about who you are and about your relationship with the other person. Nonverbal communication involves physical environments, such as homes and offices, as well. How you arrange furniture in your physical space, such as the location of the sofa in your living room or the location of your desk in your office, and even your décor, can communicate information about your attitudes and priorities to visitors and guests.
Variations
Nonverbal communication can vary considerably between larger cultures and even within smaller communities. For example, Dan O’Hair, Gustav W. Friedrich and Lynda Dee Dixon, in “Strategic Communication in Business and the Professions,” explain that in mainstream U.S. culture, direct eye contact is often a sign of respect, whereas in some Native American and Asian cultures, direct eye contact with an elder or an authority figure is considered a sign of disrespect. Other areas of variation include interpersonal space and physical expressions.
References
- “Working in Groups”; Isa N. Engleberg, Dianna R. Wynn; 2007
- “Strategic Communication in Business and the Professions”; Dan O’Hair, Gustav W. Friedrich, Lynda Dee Dixon; 2007
- HelpGuide: “Nonverbal Communication Skills: The Power of Body Language”
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